How Tattoo Removal Balm Works
The practice of tattooing is nothing new, having originated centuries ago and used by many cultures for religious and status marking, among other uses. The process has evolved over time to become more of a hobby or means of self expression. With the increased popularity of tattoos has come a lucrative new removal market for those experiencing “tattoo regret.
Laser therapy, Intense Pulsed Light treatment and other surgical procedures used to be the main method of removing unwanted body art, but in recent years, do-it-yourself, at home tattoo removal using creams has become the newest popular method. Currently dominated by such names as Wrecking Balm, Tattoo Erase and TatBGone, just three of many products available, tattoo removal balms contain a range of different ingredients. The most common active ingredient used in these products has been the controversial chemical hydroquinone, which causes disturbances in the skin’s melanin production and is commonly used in cosmetic skin bleaching. A two percent concentration of the chemical is commonly found in tattoo removal balms. The chemical has been banned in several countries due to the possibility that it may pose a cancer risk, and a ban in the United States was proposed by the FDA in 2006.
Instructions on how to use the products vary, requiring different frequency and lengths of use, as well as different methods of application. Tattoo removal balm manufacturers promise a gradual reduction in the appearance of unwanted body art with very little or no pain. Product reviews for the most popular removal products generally report that consumers had varied results, but experienced minor stinging at worst when the products were used as directed.
The current king of creams, Doc Wilson’s Wrecking Balm No. 3, incorporates a medical dermal device into the process, taking at-home tattoo removal one step further. The device was recently approved by the FDA as safe to use in the home without medical supervision. Wrecking Balm’s three-step-process works by breaking down the skin injected with ink and taking advantage of the natural skin regeneration and healing process. Phyllanthus emblica fruit, sometimes referred to as Indian Gooseberry, and salicylic acid are the active ingredients in the tattoo removal balm.
Prices on home tattoo removal products vary greatly, and consumers can expect to shell out as little as $50 or as much as $300. Most can easily be purchased online or by phone.
